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Archive for December, 2016

Mr. D.I.Y. is here

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in lifestyle, Social News

 

 

MR.D.I.Y. is officially opened now at Freshco, 1st Floor at Plaza Abdul Razak. If you heard of Supersave Concept Store, then MR.D.I.Y. is their rival and offering pretty wide range of products at super affordable price.

With their motto, Always Low Prices, it has been a popular hit in Malaysia with 250 stores and this is the first store in Brunei Darussalam.

MR. D.I.Y. strives to always put customers’ first by operating an innovative business that is flexible when it comes to a wide range of product variety, good quality and value-for-money prices; holding true to our company motto “ALWAYS LOW PRICES”.

What can you expect? Definitely hardware, household, electrical, stationery, sports, gifts, car accessories, toys and cosmetics.

MR.D.I.Y. will be giving out FREE umbrella until 1st January 2017 if you spend a minimum spend of BND $10 in a single receipt. The umbrella is limited so while stock lasts, let’s hope you are one of the lucky ones 🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sentral’s monthly winner

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in lifestyle

 


15 lucky customers walked away with prizes from the Monthly Lucky Draw for the month of December as part of the Sentral Shopping Centre with Yang Mulia Awang Hj Mozni bin Hj Anuar, RTB Kuala Belait Station Manager as the guest of honour
 

Sentral Shopping Centre has just completed its Monthly Lucky Draw for the month of December last Satuday, 24th December 2016. With about 500 short-listed, Sentral Shopping Centre was filled with a huge crowd of hopeful winners but only 15 lucky ones were picked. The prizes range from household appliances to meal voucher to one night stay at Garden Sentral Hotel as well as a LG DVD Home Theatre System for the first winner prize.

The Guest of Honor for the Grand Lucky Draw was Yang Mulia Awang Hj Mozni bin Hj Anuar who is the RTB Kuala Belait Station Manager. A total of 15 prizes were given away. The event commenced with a welcoming speech by the Marketing & Events Manager, Ahmad Anwar Rosly, who proceeded to draw the first 5 winners. It was then preceded by the PEMBELA President Atikah Rumaizah Dr Hj Harun, to draw another 5 winners. The guest of honour Awang Haji Mozni then proceeded to draw the other 5 top lucky winners. In between the draws, quiz questions were asked to the audience and the prizes to these quizzes were Cash Vouchers from various outlets under KBSentral.

The first prize winner was won by DAYANG NOOR KHAIRIYAH who won the LG DVD Home Theatre System.
The other top three winners won themselves prizes which include hampers, vouchers, one night stays at Garden Sentral Hotel and electrical kitchen appliances worth nearly $1,500.00

Lucky Draw coupon holders were reminded to be present at the Grand Lucky Draw presentation, along with their Identity Cards (IC) as proof of identity and their Lucky Draw coupons. Representatives were allowed, but they must bring along their own ICs, as well as the photocopy IC of the winner along with the original coupon. Sentral Grand Lucky Draw the third series will be on 8th January 2017 and the final series on 9th July 2017.

Do follow them on Facebook Page and Instagram @kbsentral for all the latest updates on our upcoming event activities!

 

 


The December winner Dyg Noor Khairiyah who won LG DVD Home Theatre System
 

 


Something to look forward to before 2017 hits
 

Zhuan Ji – Turn for the Better

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in gadget, lifestyle

 


Vincent Pao and Alice Chan with associates of Concepts Computer holding a popular plush toy of ZHUAN Ji which means “Turn for the Better”
 

To celebrate Chinese New Year for the upcoming Year of the Rooster, Concepts Computer will be giving away a plush toy of ZHUAN JI for every purchase of $388 and above on a single receipt. ZHUAN JI is a cartoon baby chicken that is one of the first fictional character to make waves in social media for the South East Asian Chinese community for the coming Chinese new year.

The cute and cuddly ZHUAN JI is currently making waves on social media with the hashtag, “#ZhuanJi2017”, where the Chinese characters for ZHUAN JI’s name personifies the need to make a “Turn for the Better” in 2017; be it for better health, better wealth or anything that is beneficial for the incoming Chinese new year. When asked regarding the current Bruneian market in general, and specifically the future of the IT Retail industry in Brunei Darussalam, Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, said, “It is in my opinion that we are currently in a slow turn for the better in terms of business, which is why I am looking forward to the year of the Rooster as it will signify a faster and better change.” He continued, “And as always, the IT Retail business in Brunei Darussalam gets more and more challenging every year, especially with savvy consumers using the internet and other sources to keep up-to-date regarding IT technological advances, which is why retailers need to focus more on providing better services for customers.”

When asked regarding how Concepts Computer as a whole would welcome customers in the Year of the Rooster, “When it comes to Concepts Computer, I always lead with a simple statement, ‘We must always do a good job’ so we will make a ‘Turn for the Better’ in 2017 when it comes to our customers.”

Also present during the launch event, Zul Abdul Rahman, Marketing Executive at Concepts Computer added, “We never miss an opportunity to better serve specific sectors of our customers, and this time around we are celebrating together with the Bruneian Chinese community by welcoming the year of the Rooster with ZHUAN JI who is currently a social media phenomenon with the hashtag ‘#ZhuanJi2017’.”

The ZHUAN JI plush toy will be available in limited quantity and will be given away FREE, while stocks lasts, for all Concepts customers who have purchased $388 and above on a single receipt. For more information, please call 2233551, 2233552 or 2233553, or visit your nearest Concepts Computer retail outlet. Images courtesy of Concepts Computer.

 

 


Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer holding a popular plush toy from China
 


Unboxing the stocks of ZHUAN JI
 


Concepts Computer prepping for the Year of the Rooster
 


All set and done
 

Koharu – all for $2.50

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in lifestyle, Social News

 


Congratulations Jordan and Libby on the opening of Koharu last week.
 

Koharu is a new store originated from Japan and finally made it to Brunei Darussalam. Koharu provides the pleasure of living by providing you thousands of Japanese high quality products and guess what… the price is fixed at $2.50.

I managed to buy myself a raincoat which will come in handy during the rainy season. For the now, the stocks are running pretty fast. Even the storage area needed to be replenished. The next shipment will be in February which is after Chinese New Year.

Koharu is already a hit in Brunei and the location itself is spot on as it’s located near the smaller cinema area at The Mall Cineplex. Congratulations Jordan and Libby on your new business adventure.

For more information, you can contact 719 6455. You can also follow them on their Facebook Page and also @koharu.bn on instagram.

 

 

 


Jordan attending to a customer at Koharu
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time to shop for smart TVs

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in gadget, Social News

 

 

So now with the bonus period here, what are you waiting for? Perhaps investing in a LED TV like the Panasonic models. There are a few recommended models that you might be interested in. The Panasonic LED TV Viera TH-32C400s (32” inch) and the Panasonic LED TV Viera TH-40C400s (40” inch) are the ones I’m gonna highlight.

It’s fully featured with Dynamic Pictures with a Wide Viewing Angle – IPS LED. With the Vivid Digital Pro feature, it gives natural skin tones and colours with bright, sharp images.

As for the picture quality, both models are Full HD TV with adaptive backlight dimming. There is also a dot noise reduction and V-Audio.

As for the features, it has a media player as this is a standard feature on a smart TV. It has two HDMI ports and one USD port. It also supports 28 video formats and it has smart energy saving and green technology.

Both models the Panasonic LED TV Viera TH-32C400s (32” inch) and the Panasonic LED TV Viera TH-40C400s (40” inch) are definitely good value for money and if I want to upgrade my TV for my blu-ray viewing, I would invest on these models. This is also ideal for gaming purposes when you play with your PS4 or XBOX consoles.

 

 


The Panasonic LED TV Viera TH-40C400s (40” inch)
 


The Panasonic LED TV Viera TH-40C400s (40” inch)
 


Unboxing the Panasonic TVs at AEC Panasonic
 

Now the other model that I want to boast about is the Panasonic TH-49DS630S model. This is probably the best among the lot in my opinion. It features IPS LED Super Bright Plus, making the pictures look crisper and more dynamic with a Wide Viewing Angle.

The DS630S gives you stunning Full HD pictures packed with clarity and vivid colours thanks to Hexa Chroma Drive while its Smart features make it easy to find and share content. Now what is a Hexa Chroma Drive? It gives a natural colour with 6-colour reproduction and it gives the richness on the screen and hence give you a new level of viewing pleasure.

It has three HDMI ports and two USB ports. It also supports 28 video formats and it has smart energy saving and green technology.

These models are now available at selected stores in Brunei Darussalam. You can follow updates on their Facebook Page.

 

 


The Panasonic TH-49DS630S model
 


Check out the specs
 


The Panasonic TH-49DS630S model is pretty affordable at only BND 1,049
 

Beach Safety Awareness Day

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in lifestyle, Social News

 


In memory of Shawn Cassidy Narcis and Najmuddin Tarif
 

 

New year’s coming and lots of us will be at the beach.
Beach Bunch will be doing a Beach Safety Awareness Day.
The objective is to be safe in the waters while swimming to manage drownings.
There will live demonstration on open sea safe swimming and CPRs. Talks on rip currents and open classes on open sea swimming and surfing.
Beach Bunch be working with their national emergency services including Bomba, Ambulance and Police for safer beaches. You can follow updates on their Facebook Page or instagram @thebeachbunch

 

 

 

Bomba Fire & Rescue Department are the first national responder in emergency situations at Brunei’s beaches. The number to call is 995.

When making the call, here are a few tips;

1. Don’t panic. This is easier said than done. Panic does not help. Instead, begin to plan what you will say to the dispatcher (see below). Remember: Panic is the enemy, in this race against time.

2. Know what you will be asked. Make sure that you are aware of each of the following:

– Where is the emergency?: The emergency is not always located where you are calling from. Always be aware of your surroundings and where you are.
– Nature of the emergency: Do you require assistance from Police or Ambulance? – A detailed, yet concise, description: What happened? How many details do you know? What should have the most importance? In general, the most important thing is why you need assistance, followed by what caused you to need assistance. – The phone number of your phone. The dispatcher will need instructions on how to get to where you are, and may need to call back for more information. Know the phone number of your phone. – Location. Give the dispatcher your name and address.

3. Listen to the dispatcher. Follow orders. The better and faster you follow orders, the higher everyone’s rate of survival will be. Even in a non-lethal situation (broken bones, etc.) this is of vital importance. Have strict, unwavering faith in the dispatcher. And remember that even if the dispatcher is still asking questions or giving instructions, help is on the way.

4. Do not hang up until instructed to. Anything can happen, and the emergency services need to know your situation at all times.

 

The hardest entry of 2016

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in Social News

It’s the most difficult time for many of us including myself. It took me a while to sink it what really happened last Sunday. I just couldn’t comprehend or make of what just happened. Everything happened in a span of ten minutes and it costed two lives.

Right now it’s hard to construct sentences on my feelings for both individuals. Shawn Cassidy Narcis is a person who is so dear to me (a brother, a mentor, a father figure) ever since I re-signed as a toastmasters member while Najmuddin Tarif is one exemplary individual with a kind heart, helping out on every given occasion.

I won’t indulge more for now but let’s give our support and love to the families of Shawn Cassidy Narcis and Najmuddin Tarif. Below are some of the information for Shawn Cassidy Narcis’ funeral service. For those who are not familiar with Shawn, you can read more about him here and do feel free to post comments too.

I miss both of you. I really do.

 


In today’s paper. Rest in peace.
 

 


Papa Shawn was the main reason I took the responsibility to run the Brunei Conference 2016 last October because he truly believes in me and it was my best achievement so far as a leader. Image taken by Yeoh Cheng Lim.
 

 


Shawn is a big collector of Coca-Cola and I’m amazed by his collection
 

 


Najmuddin Tarif. We will miss you bro. Thank you for the wonderful memories. Al-Fatihah
 

Protect from power surges

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in gadget, lifestyle, Social News

 


Firdaus bin Abdul Samad, Channel Sales Manager of Schneider Electric (Brunei) and Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer with the latest product from APC
 

Concepts Computer, being a distributor of quality, innovation and industry leading power protection and management products, APC (American Power Conversion) since January 2016 has been providing power protection solutions at great, affordable prices with a great backbone of customer service. APC which is a subsidiary of Schneider Electric is working diligently to improve the manageability and protection of the power systems that affects users in their daily lives, be it at home for their home electronics, or even at work for business-critical systems. Schneider Electric has an office in Brunei located in Beribi.

Made as user-friendly as possible, APC has provided three different models for use by consumers; the APC PM5 surge protector, which is the basic model and has protection for up to 918 joules and has five power outlets; the other two models are the APC PM5U and the APC PM6U, with either five or six power outlets according to model and with two USB charging ports for mobile devices. Now I must say these features are very useful for our everyday usage. Even at home, I have multiple sockets here and there just my room alone. Yes, my room is power hungry too.

All three power surge protectors will provide a master power button for all power outlets, a surge protection LED which shows that the power surge protector is capable of protecting all the connected equipment, a Ground OK LED indicator to show that the power source outlet is properly grounded, 180-degree rotating cord management, and wall mount holes for easy installation onto walls. Let’s not forget that the APC PM5U and PM6U have USB ports to charge and also protect your smartphones, tablets and even charging your own power banks.

 

 


They ranged at $28, $48 and $58
 


They have many stocks so don’t worry
 


My recommendation will be the PM6U-UK
 

 

All the three models from APC will also provide Catastrophic Event Protection where the surge protection circuitry will act instantly to protect all connected devices or equipment against wiring faults, power surges, voltage fluctuations and even lightning strikes. So there is many to love about these products brought in by Concepts Computer.

Vincent Pao, General Manager of Concepts Computer, speaking to the media, said, “Concepts Computer has been in the fore-front of providing cutting edge solutions for businesses and personal use, and providing a larger range of APC products is another step in the right direction to bring better and greater IT solutions for Bruneian IT consumers.”

He continued, “Also, besides the other Global brands we carry, like Acer, Epson, Logitech; APC Power Management solutions are a needed addition to the range of products we can bring into the Bruneian market. It is a reliable and well-known brand that originated from the US”.

Did you know that Brunei has the privilege to be the first in SEA market to release these models? Coolio. You can check out the three models at Concepts Computer and I’m sure it will be a big hit among consumer end. I also do a review of the APC PM6U-UK on my blog soon. Stay tune.

 

KST Shell Helix Branded Workshop

Written by Rano Iskandar on . Posted in automative, lifestyle

 


Hong Kim Seng, co-owner of Kien Sing (Tan) Co. (KST), Pg Shamhary bin Pg Dato Hj Mustapha, Managing Director of BSM, Lim Soo Lian, co-owner of Kien Sing (Tan) Co. (KST) and Mr Hong Chian Kai, General Manager of Kien Sing (Tan) Co. (KST) during the official launch of the KST Shell Helix Branded Workshop at Madewa yesterday
 


Group photo with KST associates and BSM representatives
 

Kien Sing (Tan) Co. (KST) yesterday launched a Shell Helix Branded Workshop at their Madewa outlet. Apparently they have four outlets and the Madewa branch is the first of its outlet to be branded in to Shell Helix Workshop.

Did you know that the company has been in existence since 1960s? And they started off the business by selling bicycles in Bandar. They later relocated to Gadong, being the main outlet and the second one opened at Seri Complex specializing in car repairs and spare parts. Now they have four outlets and still going strong.

KST has a strong relationship with Brunei Shell Marketing Company since the 1980s and it’s no surprise that KST (Madewa) has transformed into a Shell Helix Branded Workshop. With their good track record and offering top notch quality service, BSM entrusted with their consistency and hence KST was chosen to partner with BSM to be a Shell Helix Branded Workshop.

The revamped workshop will also help to cater to the younger generation as most of their clienteles are the “aunties and uncles”. I quite like the overall feel of the workshop and with this collaboration, it will help to bring a better service to the customers.

During the opening remarks, Mr Hong Chian Kai, General Manager of KST, thanked BSM for their trust in the partnership. Also present was Pg Shamhary bin Pg Dato Hj Mustapha, Managing Director of BSM, Hjh Siti Kurshiah Hj Anuar, Head of Commercial, Hong Kim Seng and Lim Soo Lian, co-owners of KST.

In conjunction with the launch, KST is pleased to announce a three days free oil change promotion. With any purchase of Shell Helix lubricants and oil filters at their Madera outlet, customers are entitled to an oil change free of charge. Term and conditions apply. For more information, please contact 265 6722 or visit their outlet at Spg 618, Kim Sa Complex, Kg Madera, Jalan Tutong.

Congratulations to Kien Sing Tan Co. on the Shell Helix Branded Workshop.

 


Mr Hong Chian Kai, General Manager of Kien Sing (Tan) Co. (KST) delivering his welcoming remarks before the ribbon cutting
 

 


A token of appreciation to Pg Shamhary
 


Pg Shamhary touring around the workshop
 


The interior look of the KST
 


Trust Shell products 😀
 

 


Seng Yee and I were on duty during the launch
 


The special promotion from KST
 

Contact RA

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Contact: +6738677773

About RA

A blogger since 2002, using platforms from blogspot, joomla and now currently wordpress. A readership that stands on average of 20,000 visits per month. Also on active on social media platform on IG, Facebook and Snapchat (@ranoadidas)

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